Croydon SUN Project (Service User Network): Free NHS Mental Health Service in Croydon

What is the Croydon SUN Project?

The Croydon SUN (Service User Network) Project is an open-access peer support group for adults experiencing difficulties with emotional regulation, relationships, stress, and impulsivity. The service is particularly designed for people with personality difficulties or complex emotional needs, including those who may previously have been excluded from psychiatric services or conventional outpatient psychotherapy. It's part of the Croydon and Lewisham Personality Disorder Services within South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust.

Groups provide a safe, non-judgemental space where members can give and receive support from others going through similar struggles, using Therapeutic Community principles and the Appraisal Based Coping model.

Who Can Use the SUN Project?

The SUN Project is for adults aged 18 to 65 who are registered with a Croydon GP and who struggle with intense emotions, relationship difficulties, impulsive behaviour, or complex emotional needs. You don't need a formal personality disorder diagnosis. It's particularly valuable for people who haven't found other services helpful, or who have been discharged from mental health services but still need support.

How Do I Access the SUN Project?

The SUN Project is self-referral only, via an online registration form; a team member then phones you to explain the groups and book your first Welcome Group. Health and social care professionals cannot refer on a client's behalf. If you have communication difficulties and need help completing the form, phone 020 3228 8541. There's no waiting list for the Welcome Group, and you can start attending regular groups as soon as you've completed it.

What Should I Expect?

Groups meet three times weekly: Monday and Wednesday from 2:15-4:45pm in person, and Friday from 10:00am-12:30pm online. Each group is led by two mental health professionals (clinicians and peer support workers). Fellow members offer help with emotional, relational, social, and practical difficulties, while facilitators help members prevent crises and access additional help when needed. The service is based at locations including 56a Mitcham Road, Croydon - both wheelchair accessible.